Residents warned about cold callers

The warning follows concerns being expressed by residents in Bromsgrove raised via the District Council’s Community Safety team. 

Officers are warning residents that sometimes this can be a front for rogue traders looking to con vulnerable consumers. It has been known for them to make false claims such as they are ‘working for or on behalf of local authorities’, or that they ‘work with Trading Standards’.

Councillor Karen May, cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council said, “This is a concerning trend and I am grateful to our Trading Standards officers for bringing this to the attention of the public. I would advise residents to remain vigilant and to warn vulnerable family, friends and neighbours of the danger with these calls.”

Trading Standards advises residents not to agree to work that is instigated as a result of a cold call, or via a leaflet drop, and if contacted, do not give out or confirm any personal information.
Residents should obtain at least 3 written quotes from reputable businesses or traders who are members of a recognised trade association.

To inform Trading Standards about companies offering insulation surveys where false claims are suspected, contact our partners at the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.  

Please try to obtain as much information as you can for example the name and address for the company, telephone numbers and vehicle registration details. Make a note of these before contacting Citizen Advice Consumer helpline.  

If the matter is urgent, or where there are personal safety concerns, contact West Mercia Police on their non-urgent number 101 or dial 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated.

For further information on energy savings, you can contact the Energy Savings Trust on 0300 123 1234.

Home energy efficiency advice can be found at the website: Simple Energy Advice (or by telephone on 0800 444 202).